By Simon McKittrick
Markets have been active with stock shifting in big numbers across the country with recent widespread rain across the NT, QLD, and parts of NSW has boosted confidence, slowing turnoff in some areas and tightening supply in others.
Now that winter has arrived, we’re starting to see a noticeable pullback in yardings this week. QLD is still awash with cattle, but feedlot space and processor bookings are reportedly 3–4 weeks out. Southern processors chasing cows up north are helping prop up the cow job for now.
This Week in the Cattle Market
- EYCI: 703c/kg – Restocker demand remains solid
- Aussie Dollar: Holding steady just over US 65c
Indicative Prices
- Domestic Feeder Steer: $4.20+/kg (420–500kg)
- Domestic Feeder Heifer: $3.70/kg (380–480kg)
- Flatback Heavy Feeder Steer: $3.65–3.75/kg
- Angus Heavy Feeder Steer: $4.40–4.60/kg
- Slaughter Cow: $2.80–3.00/kg lwt
- MSA Steers/Heifers: $6.50–7.20/kg hscw
Store Market Update
Recent rainfall has lit a fire under store markets, especially in the north. Supply has tightened and demand from restockers has lifted prices. Southern regions remain patchy, with some still selling ahead of winter. Lighter weaner steers, PTIC heifers and cows have gained in the last fortnight, especially as we edge toward calving.
Feedlot Market Update
Feeders are getting harder to source in the north. Steers are trending up around 365/75c/kg, with Angus types fetching up to 450/60c/kg. Feedlots are still buying, but delivery windows are stretching out as space tightens.
Slaughter Market Update
Processors are competing harder for finished cattle, especially good cows. Heavy cows are pushing $2.90–3.00/kg lwt, and MSA steers and heifers are holding firm at $6.50–7.20/kg hscw.
Looking Ahead
Global demand is holding up, with the US still our biggest customer—and biggest competitor. US domestic beef consumption is surging despite a 7% drop in exports. With their herd rebuild underway, reduced local production should keep pressure off our export flows.
But the big watch-out is US retail demand. If consumer confidence keeps dipping and tariffs bite into prices, we may see some slowdown. If that happens, processors could ease back rates here and prices could come under pressure, especially if global buyers aren’t ready to pick up the slack.
Final Thoughts
Rain has firmed most markets, and although there are still plenty of cattle in the system, they’re not flooding in all at once. Heavy feeders both steers and heifers are in short supply and well sought after. Store cattle are ticking along, and the cow market has benefited from processor interest up north. Confidence is back, especially in the north, and that’s helping to hold the line.
Looking forward, it’ll be the southern winter rain (or lack of it) that could swing things one way or the other, particularly for southern states looking to soak up northern stock.